STB keeps rate-case fees low

The Surface Transportation Board's latest update of fees shippers must pay to file cases and pleadings, released Friday, contains some increases but leaves unchanged the current $350 fee charged shippers to file a rate complaint, as well as the current $150 fee to file an expedited small rate case. The board reduced both fees last year.

The board is required to implement increases to cover overhead costs, the agency noted.

"Because of these costs, 64 of 125 fee or sub-fee items will cost slightly more, while 61 items or sub-items remain unchanged. Notably, 76% of the user-fee items either remain unchanged or will increase by $100 or less," the agency said.